"Speckled Kingsnake"
Speckled Kingsnake. (2006, June 3). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 00:32, January 1, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Speckled_Kingsnake&oldid=56605263
Lampropeltis getula holbrooki (aka speckled kingsnake) is a non-venomous species of kingsnake found in the central to southern United States from southern Iowa to the Gulf of Mexico.[1] Their range overlaps with the desert kingsnake, Lampropeltis getula splendida and it is known to intergrade with that species. They prefer wetter habitats than other kingsnake species.
Speckled kingsnakes grow up to 48 inches (120 cm). Their common name is derived from their pattern, which is black, with small yellow-white specks on most every scale. They are also known as the 'salt and pepper' snake. Their diet consists of mammals, birds, rodents, lizards and other snakes. They kill by constriction.
When threatened, the speckled kingsnake will shake its tail like a rattlesnake to deter predators. They frequently musk and defecate or bite when threatened.
They can be docile when held and are frequently kept as pets. They are commonly captive bred.
The speckled kingsnake is listed as a threatened species in the state of Iowa.[2]
Speckled Kingsnake. (2006, June 3). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 00:32, January 1, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Speckled_Kingsnake&oldid=56605263
This article has been read 250 times.
